Usefulness of the 3D virtual visualization surgical planning simulation and 3D model for endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery of pituitary adenoma: Technical report and review of literature

The purpose of this research was to investigate the usefulness of three-dimensional print models (3D models) in endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (EeTSS) for pituitary adenoma. Eleven patients underwent EeTSS for pituitary adenoma using 3D models. We manufactured a 3D virtual surgical planning image using the patient's Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine dataset. Based on the image, a life-size model was created by a 3D printer using multi-material acrylic-based resin. Our results suggest that such 3D models could be useful in EeTSS for pituitary adenoma.